Overview
Great Saint James is an island of approximately 165 acres (67 ha) located directly adjacent to Little Saint James in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI).
Epstein purchased it around 2016 for approximately $18 million. It is believed the island was acquired partly to prevent neighboring development and to expand his private “safe zone.”
Construction
Extensive construction took place on the island between 2016 and 2019. Several structures were built, including storage facilities and buildings of unknown purpose. Local environmentalists complained of illegal construction and destruction of coral reefs.
Lawsuit (20192020)
The Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands filed suit against Epstein’s estate, alleging sexual abuse of minors on this island. The USVI government successfully pursued the seizure of Epstein’s Caribbean assets.
Transfer
After lengthy legal proceedings, Great Saint James Island was seized and transferred to the U.S. Virgin Islands government for public use (20222023).